Spice Up Your Indian Meal With These Tasty Side Dishes For Curry

Indian curry is delicious and flavorful dish that is best enjoyed with a variety of side dishes. These side dishes not only provide a complement to the bold flavors of the curry but also add texture, nutrition, and balance to the meal. While many side dishes can be served with Indian curry, popular and traditional options include naan bread, rice, dhal, potatoes, and sauces. Each side dish brings a unique element to the meal and can be customized to your liking. In this article, we will explore the best side dishes to serve with Indian curry.

Naan Bread 

Naan bread is a traditional Indian bread that is a popular side dish to serve with curry. It is soft and fluffy with a slightly crispy exterior, and it is typically baked in a tandoor oven. Naan bread can be plain or stuffed with ingredients like garlic, cheese, or herbs, making it a versatile and delicious accompaniment to any curry dish. It is perfect for dipping in curry sauce or soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate. Naan curry is easy to find in Indian restaurants or can be made at home with simple ingredients.

Rice 

Rice is the best side dish in Indian cuisine and a perfect complement to curry. Basmati rice is the most commonly used rice for Indian dishes due to its fragrant aroma and light, fluffy texture. Rice can be plain or seasoned with spices like cumin, turmeric, and saffron for added flavor. It is typically cooked using a 2:1 ratio of water to rice and can be boiled or steamed. Rice is a filling and affordable option to serve with curry, and it provides a neutral base for the bold flavors of the curry sauce to shine through.

Dhal 

Dhal, also known as lentil soup or lentil curry, is a classic side dish to serve with Indian curry. Made with lentils and a variety of aromatic spices, including cumin, coriander, and turmeric, dhal is a rich and flavorful dish that pairs well with curry. It can be served on its own or mixed with rice, and it's a great source of protein and fiber. Dhal can also be customized to your liking by adding vegetables like spinach or sweet potato for added nutrition and texture. It's a delicious and hearty side dish that will satisfy you.

Potatoes 

Potatoes are a popular side dish to serve with Indian curry, particularly in dishes like aloo gobi (potato and cauliflower curry) or aloo mattar (potato and pea curry). Potatoes add a hearty and filling element to the meal and provide a neutral base for the spicy and bold flavors of the curry. Potatoes can be boiled, roasted, or fried, depending on the recipe, and they can also be seasoned with spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric for added flavor. They're an affordable and versatile side dish that compliments any curry dish.

Sauces 

Sauces are a great addition to any Indian curry meal and can be used as a side dish to complement the flavors of the main dish. Raita, for example, is a famous yogurt-based sauce that can help balance out the spiciness of a curry dish. Chutneys, such as mango chutney or mint chutney, are sweet and savory sauces that provide a burst of flavor to the meal. Other sauces like tamarind sauce or coconut chutney can add a tangy or creamy element to the meal, making them a great addition to any Indian curry spread.

In conclusion, serving the right side dishes with curry can take your meal to the next level. From naan curry to rice, dhal, potatoes, sauces, there are many delicious options to choose from. These side dishes help balance the spiciness and add texture and flavor to the meal, making it a well-rounded and satisfying experience.